If you have a passion for theatre, music, dance, poetry, crafts, visual arts, or early childhood development, the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) Arts and Culture Fieldworkers opportunity could help you gain valuable work experience in South Africa.
The Free State Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation is recruiting applicants for an 11-month contract at Mbabana Arts and Culture Centre. Successful candidates will receive a monthly stipend of R2 500 while supporting community arts and development programmes.
This opportunity is ideal for unemployed youth, community creatives, and entry-level job seekers who want practical experience in the public sector.
What You Need
Before applying, prepare the following:
- Completed New Z83 Form
- One-page CV
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Proof of relevant experience (if available)
- Transport plan to submit application by hand
- Application submitted before 08 May 2026
EPWP Arts and Culture Fieldworkers Programme 2026 Overview
Key Details
- Programme: EPWP Arts and Culture Fieldworkers Programme 2026
- Department: Free State Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation
- Location: Mbabana Arts and Culture Centre
- Contract Length: 11 months
- Monthly Stipend: R2 500
- Closing Date: 08 May 2026
What Is the EPWP Programme?
The Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) is a South African government initiative that creates temporary work opportunities while helping people build skills and experience.
In the arts and culture sector, EPWP roles help to:
- Support community arts centres
- Create youth development opportunities
- Promote local culture and talent
- Strengthen township and rural creative programmes
- Support children through creative learning activities
This means you gain income and experience that can strengthen your future job applications.
Available Streams You Can Apply For
Applicants must choose one stream only.
Performing and Visual Arts Stream
Best suited for people interested in:
- Theatre
- Drama
- Music
- Dance
- Poetry
- Visual Art
- Sewing
- Craftwork
You may help run workshops, mentor young artists, and support local talent programmes.
General Worker Stream
Responsibilities may include:
- Cleaning facilities
- Venue preparation
- Maintenance support
- Event setup
- General centre assistance
This is a strong option for applicants seeking work experience and stable routine responsibilities.
Early Childhood Developer Stream
Ideal for applicants interested in ECD careers or teaching pathways.
You may assist with:
- Learning activities for children aged 3–5
- Creative play sessions
- Classroom preparation
- Arts-based child development support
Minimum Requirements
To apply, you must have:
- Matric / Senior Certificate
OR
- Relevant experience linked to your chosen stream
Relevant experience may include:
- Community theatre groups
- Church choir or dance teams
- Sewing or craft projects
- Volunteering at ECD centres
- Youth programme support
- Cultural event participation
Even informal experience can help your application.
Monthly Stipend and Why It Matters
Successful applicants will receive R2 500 per month for 11 months.
While EPWP roles are temporary, they often help candidates move into:
- Learnerships
- Government contract roles
- NGO jobs
- ECD assistant posts
- Community arts programmes
- Stronger future job opportunities
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted by hand.
Submit These Documents:
- Completed New Z83 Form
- One-page CV
Submission Venue:
Mbabana Arts and Culture Centre
Enquiries:
Ms Tumelo Senoge-Bollers
072 1591 710
senoge-bollers.tg@sacr.fs.gov.za
Deadline:
08 May 2026
Late applications are usually not considered.
Expert Insight
A common reason applicants get rejected is submitting a generic CV that does not match the stream selected.
For example, someone applying for the Performing Arts stream may simply write “looking for work” instead of listing real skills like choir experience, drama participation, sewing projects, or youth mentoring.
Pro-Tip to Stand Out
Tailor your one-page CV to the stream you choose.
Use clear examples such as:
- Assisted church choir rehearsals
- Performed in school drama productions
- Made and sold handmade crafts
- Helped supervise children at crèche
- Supported local events or community projects
Specific experience often carries more weight than vague statements.
You Can Also Explore
If you are interested in similar opportunities, you can also check:
- Internships in South Africa
- Bursaries for 2026
- Learnership programmes
- Apprenticeships
- Jobs for youth
- Student guides and resources
- Scholarships and funding options
- Fellowship opportunities
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a permanent job?
No. It is an 11-month EPWP contract.
Do I need a diploma in arts?
No. Matric or relevant experience is accepted.
Can community experience count?
Yes. Community-based arts or childcare experience can strengthen your application.
Can I apply for more than one stream?
No. Choose one stream only.
Is there online application?
No. Applications must be submitted physically.
Final Advice
If you are unemployed and want practical experience in the South African public sector, this is a smart opportunity. Government programmes like EPWP can help you build confidence, references, and work history.
Apply early, prepare your documents properly, and make sure your CV reflects your real experience.
Closing Date: 08 May 2026
Mbalizuke Nkosi is the editorial voice behind YouthScope.co.za, a South African youth-focused platform dedicated to providing reliable information on opportunities, education, and career development. The platform serves students, graduates, job seekers, and young professionals by delivering accurate, timely, and easy-to-understand content.
With a strong commitment to youth empowerment and skills development, Mbalizuke Nkosi oversees the publication of valuable resources covering learnerships, internships, bursaries, scholarships, employment opportunities, and study guidance across South Africa.
Through informative and professionally curated content, YouthScope.co.za aims to equip young people with the knowledge and resources needed to make informed decisions about their education and future careers.
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